Skip to content
At Mobilize Against Poverty (MAP), we believe that true community development begins with respecting and involving the traditional authorities who hold the trust and history of their people. In line with this belief, the MAP team recently embarked on a heartfelt familiarization visit to the Paramount Chief (PC) of Maforki and the Regent Chief of Bakeloko Chiefdoms. These visits were not only about introducing MAP’s mission but also about fostering partnerships that will drive sustainable change in these communities.
A Warm Welcome in Maforki
Our visit to the Paramount Chief of Maforki was met with extraordinary warmth and hospitality. The PC and his wife greeted us graciously, expressing their excitement about MAP’s commitment to their chiefdom. His words of support were both reassuring and inspiring, as he pledged to work hand in hand with MAP to achieve shared goals for community growth.
Maforki, as the PC emphasized, is one of the largest chiefdoms, encompassing 20 section chiefs. However, this vastness comes with logistical challenges. He pointed out the difficulty of gathering all the chiefs due to the significant distances they would need to travel and suggested that MAP consider providing transportation and refreshments for such gatherings. His thoughtful concern highlighted the real-life challenges of mobilizing leaders for collective action in a large chiefdom.
During the conversation, the PC also addressed an important matter regarding MAP’s operational space. He reminded us that the office, located within his chiefdom, was originally a free grant from the Gberay Morie community and not the Red Cross. This insightful revelation reinforced the community’s shared ownership of MAP’s presence in the region. He urged MAP to avoid rental costs and advocate for the office space as a community contribution, ensuring that funds remain focused on developmental efforts.
A Historic Visit to Bakeloko
In Bakeloko, our meeting with the Regent Chief carried a unique significance. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for MAP’s respect in engaging directly with traditional authorities, noting that no other organization had extended such a gesture before. His appreciation and willingness to collaborate reaffirmed our belief that strong partnerships with local leaders are essential for meaningful development.
Bakeloko comprises 10 sections, and the Regent Chief suggested that MAP schedule a meeting with the chiefs to discuss our plans in detail. He assured us that the Chairman of the Section Chiefs would assist in coordinating this effort, showing his dedication to fostering a smooth and effective partnership.
A Heartfelt Conclusion
As the visits drew to a close, Kadiatu Mangai Conteh, expressed MAP’s profound gratitude to both the PC of Maforki and the Regent Chief of Bakeloko. Their warm welcome, encouraging words, and belief in MAP’s mission left a lasting impression on our team. Their insights and advice have strengthened our resolve to work tirelessly for the betterment of these communities.
These visits were more than just formalities—they were a testament to the power of collaboration, respect, and shared vision. At MAP, we are committed to nurturing these relationships and building bridges that will lead to lasting change.
Stay tuned as we continue to work hand in hand with the people and leaders of Maforki and Bakeloko to bring hope, empowerment, and development to every corner of these chiefdoms.
#MobilizeAgainstPoverty #CommunityEngagement #PartnershipsForChange #TraditionalLeadership #SustainableDevelopment
